The title of class speaker is bestowed on only one member of the graduating class of the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh’s midyear ceremony. With that title comes the duty to address thousands of fellow graduates, faculty and staff, friends, family and other guests.

Students who apply to be the class speaker go through an application process that includes giving the speech in front of the University’s Graduation Awards Committee. This year’s contenders did not take the task lightly. They spoke with honesty and with great heart.

On Dec. 18, the thousands of people who attend the commencement ceremony in Kolf Sports Center will hear class speaker Nathan Michael. To get to know him and the other finalists — as well as hear the other finalists’ speeches — visit www.uwosh.edu/commencement/final-words.